A month into sophomore year,
the leaves turn to yellow,
ACs off, sweaters everywhere.
He watches his neighbors play basketball,
searches the garage for even a deflated ball
to practice near the pool in the backyard.
No net, no hoop, no friends
practicing alone like a dog chasing its tail.
He convinces himself he’s going to be a star,
he’s going to ace the tryouts.
Reality punches his stomach,
he staggers back against the locker room wall.
His heart pumps with embarrassment.
His body, paralyzed till dusk.